
If you’ve ever enjoyed an avocado, you know how tasty it is, but did you also know that the pit inside can grow into a plant? Avocados, scientifically known as Persea americana, are an interesting plant, and growing one from seed is a fun way to learn about how plants grow. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this guide will show you how to turn that avocado pit into a healthy, thriving plant.
About Avocados
Avocados are more than just a trendy fruit; they’re a superfood known for their healthy fats and rich flavor. Native to Mexico and Central America, avocados are beloved worldwide for their creamy texture and nutritional benefits. But did you know that the seed inside an avocado can also grow into a plant?
Growing an avocado from seed is a rewarding experience that teaches patience, responsibility, and the basics of plant care. While it’s not guaranteed you’ll get fruit from a seed (that can take years), you’ll be left with a beautiful and unique indoor plant that you nurtured yourself.
How Easy is it to Grow Avocados?
The best part about growing an avocado from seed is how easy it can be, even for beginners. It takes a bit of patience and care, but you don’t need any fancy tools or expert knowledge. Keep in mind, though, that while it’s simple to grow the plant, it could take several years before you see any fruit, and growing fruit indoors can be a bit tricky.
What You’ll Need
Before you get started, gather these supplies. They’re easy to find, and you probably already have most of them around your house!
- Avocado seed/pit: The seed you’ve removed from the fruit.
- Toothpicks: These will help suspend the seed in water.
- Glass or jar: A container to hold the seed while it germinates in water.
- Pot/container: If you’re planting in soil, you’ll need a small pot for your avocado plant.
- Potting soil: Choose well-draining soil to help the roots grow strong.

How to Grow Avocado from Seed
There are two main ways to grow an avocado from seed: water germination and soil planting. Both are simple, and you can choose the one that works best for you. However, regardless of the method you choose, you’ll need to plant the sprouted seed in soil at some point for it to grow into a healthy plant. Let’s dive into both methods so you can pick the one that works best for you.
Water Germination
This is a fun way to watch the seed grow as the roots develop in the water. Here’s how to get started:

- Prepare the seed: After enjoying your avocado, carefully remove the seed and rinse off any leftover fruit.
- Add toothpicks: Find the top (pointy end) and bottom (flat end) of the seed. Stick three toothpicks into the seed about halfway up, spaced evenly around it.
- Place the seed in water: Set the seed with the toothpicks on the edge of a glass or jar, making sure the bottom is in the water. The toothpicks will hold the seed in place.
- Wait for it to sprout: Put the glass in a sunny spot and wait for the seed to grow. After 4-8 weeks, you should see roots coming out of the bottom and a stem sprouting from the top.
While germinating in water is fun to watch, once the seed has sprouted and has a good set of roots, it’s time to transfer the sprouted seed into soil. This is important for the long-term health of the plant.
Soil Planting

- Prepare the seed: Just like the water method, clean the seed and make sure you know which end is the top (pointed) and which is the bottom (flat).
- Plant the seed: Fill a small pot with well-draining soil and place the seed with the pointed side up. Bury the seed about halfway in the soil.
- Water regularly: Keep the soil moist, but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
- Sunlight: Put the pot in a spot with plenty of natural light. Avocados thrive in bright, indirect sunlight.
Caring for Your Avocado Plant
Once your avocado seed has sprouted and started growing, it’s time to take care of it. An avocado tree usually takes several years to mature and begin producing fruit. Here are some key tips to help it thrive:
- Watering: Keep the soil moist, but not soggy. Too much water can lead to root rot, so be careful not to overwater.
- Sunlight: Avocado plants need lots of light to grow well. A windowsill with bright, indirect light works best. If you’re growing it indoors, make sure it gets at least 6 hours of light a day.
- Pruning: Once your avocado plant has a few leaves, pinch off the top to encourage it to grow more branches. This will help it become a bushier, stronger plant. Check out our full guide about pruning Avocados!
- Repotting: As your plant grows, it may outgrow its pot. When that happens, repot it into a larger container so the roots have plenty of space to spread.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you germinate an avocado seed?
To germinate an avocado seed, clean it and insert three toothpicks around the middle. Place the seed in a glass of water, with the bottom submerged, and wait for roots to grow.
Do you start avocado seeds in water or soil?
You can start avocado seeds in either water or soil. For water, suspend the seed in a glass with toothpicks. For soil, plant the seed halfway into a pot with well-draining soil.
How long does it take to grow an avocado from seed?
It usually takes about 4-8 weeks for the avocado seed to sprout in water. After that, it can take several months for the plant to grow large enough for repotting. An avocado tree usually takes several years to mature and begin producing fruit.